The Victorian Building Authority (VBA) has issued a warning on the dangers of using appliances designed for outdoor heating for cooking indoors.
The warning follows the carbon monoxide poisoning of 11 people at a house in Tasmania last week.
The Authority said the Tasmanian Fire Service (TFS) had conducted gas monitoring at the scene and confirmed carbon monoxide levels were at least four to five times above what was regarded as safe.
“The TFS said the elevated readings were caused by a solid fuel barbeque being used inside for cooking, causing carbon monoxide to build up in the room over several hours,” the VBA said.
“Media reported that, as a result of the incident, 11 people, including nine children, were taken to hospital,” it said.
Executive Director of Operations at VBA, Alison Byrne said that unlike wood and gas heaters that were flued or ducted to the outside to remove carbon monoxide gas, outdoor cookers and outdoor heaters were not flued or designed for indoor use.
“Sadly, as we see all too frequently, particularly during winter, serious injuries and close calls can and do occur where people use outdoor cooking and heating appliances fuelled by gas, charcoal and other combustion means indoors or in confined spaces,” Ms Byrne said.
“The improper use of such appliances can quickly turn into a tragic situation due to carbon monoxide poisoning,” she said.
“Carbon monoxide is known as the ‘silent killer’ because it is colourless and odourless, so it is important for the community to take it very seriously.”
Ms Byrne said the incident was also a timely reminder for Victoria’s plumbers to speak to their clients about the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning where flued indoor heaters were faulty or poorly maintained.
